UlBRARY OF CONGRESS. I # .# ^ [FORCE COLLECTION.] | UNITED STATES OP AMERICA # iDl'%''%^'%'^'%'* '%>'%''%''^^'%>'%''^'%>'^'%'^'*>'[I5 M.:m THE PALL OF WARSAW; A TRAGEDY, IN FIVE ACT WRITTEN BY LEWIS FERDINAND 'lEHMANOWSKI. AN1VAP0 3L,IS: PRINTED BY GEO. S. M'KIEl^NAIV. 1840 " ■i^'y- PERSONS REPRESENTED. Prince Czartoryski, (pronounced Chartoreeski,) President of the Senate. Krookoa^eeatzki, - - Governor of Warsaw. ScHRZYNECKi, (pronowiced Skanetskl,) General-in-Chief of the Polish Army. Paskewitsh, General-in-Chief of the Russian Army. Count Camenski, - - - Polish Senator. Alexis, His Son. Major Rowinski. Rudolph, His Son. Peter Howeski, Farmer. Senators, Bishop, Priests, Polish Officers and Soldiers, Russian Officers and Soldiers, Citizens, Peasants, Tavern-keeper, Boys, Pages, Servants. Countess Camenski. Madame Rowinski. Pauline, Her Daughter. Cecille, Her Attendant. Ladies, Farmers' Wives, Tavern-keeper's Wife, Children, Servants, Travelers. Entered according to the Act of Congress, in'the year 1840, By Lewis Ferdinand Lehmanowski, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of Maryland. . H^iilL^Ii CDl^ '^iilB^ii'^d' ACT THE FIRST. SCENE I. — The rising of the curtain presents to vieiu a grand Gothic hall, luell lighted, and decorated with Po- lish flags. A large table in the centre, (covered ivith scarlet cloth, with gold fringe,) on ivhich are ivriting 7naterials, stands before a kind of throne, or elevated seat; and on each side are six chairs. After a few mo- ments is heard a bell, and a page, in livery, appearitig from an inner door, opens an opposite one. Enter Major RowiNSKi, folloiaed by a company of Infantry, which he ranges in front of the door, facing it. ^^ Sentinel is placed at the door. After a short interval, footsteps are heard approaching. Sentinel, (advancing his bayonet) Who comes here? \_Answer from ivithout: "The Counsellors of Poland." — ■ The door is thrown open by the page who had stood in vmiting. Enter eleven Senators, in black cloaks, ivith red collars.' RowiNSKi. Shoulder arms! [The soldiers obey the or- der; and the page, having closed and bolted the door, retires into a recess in a remote part of the hall, while the senators take seats round the table.) Support arms! About face! ( The soldiers, in obeying this command, turn so as to face the in- ner door, at which^ a few moments later, enters the Presi- FALL OF DENT of the Senate, dressed in the same style, with the addi- tion of a star on\his breast. The Senators rise.) Open ranks! (llie soldiers divide, thus opening a passage,the ranks facing each other.) Present arms! ( The^Major raises the hilt of his sword to his forehead, and the President, ?and he that dares to touch him is a dead man. Officer. Soldiers do your duty — take them both. — [Soldiers approach. Peter and his friend resist. The other peas airts join them — blows are given, and several sol- diers fall wounded. Peter is at length seized, and his friend and the other farmers, defend themselves f^om the soldiers, who are endeavoring to take them. Ji girl often or twelve years, peeps from the door of a hut, and seeing Peter strug- gling betiveen two powerful men, screams "My father' my father! — mother come," — Peter's wife runs to the door '—'looks a moment — then rushing forward, utters exclama^ tions of distraction and despair. At the same moment a peasant' s wife appears at the door of another hut, and after one look out, runs to the church and rings the bell with all her might. Peter is heard to say in the struggle, "Do you think because you have taken a poor peasant, that the Poles will have less courage to fight against such a tyrant ? — ha, ha, you don't know the Poles.") Officer. Drag the lellow off. [Peter's wife ivrings her hands in agony — the sound of the bell has now alarm- ed other villagers — a few farmers come out ivith muskets, but seem fearful to discharge them, lest they should wound some of the farmers— excepting in one or two instances, where a soldier is shot down. The off.cir makes a thrust at Peter loith his sword. A woman a moment before hav- WARSAW* It ing rUshedfrom one of the houses ivith a pair of fire tongs ^ with them knocks the arm of the officer^ ivho drops the sword. Peter at that instant freeing himself from those who held hiin, takes up the sword quick, loields it vigor- ously, faces the officer, and exclaims: "Now you are my prisoner!" The soldiers fight — Peter, at length desper- ately wounded, falls. — His wife screaming "My husband!" with phrenzied courage, seizes the sword from his hand and rushes upon the soldiers. — One or more is seen to fall before her.— All is confusion.— Cries of "Help ! help !" — Suddenly a drum is heard. Alexis appears dt the head of a company of Polish Infantry. They surround the Russians, who throw down their arms.) [Cur tain falls i ACT THE SECOND. SCENE I. — Jl dressing room. — Madame Rowinski, rich^ ly dressed, with her daughter Pauline, seated on a sofa. Madame Rowinski. Pauline, my dear, go inquire if hews have arrived. — I long for tidings — and yet I dread them. Pauline. Yes mother — ^and I will return instantly. — ^ (Exit Pauline — Madame Rowinski audibly sighing, leans on her hand. — Pauline soon returns with a printed paper in her hand^ and with an air of trepidation speaks :) — > Here, dear mother, is a bulletin just printed by order of Prince Chartoreeski, and sent round for the information of the citizens.— I am afraid to read, for by a glance I saw that it tells of blood! — ^O ! my mother ! Madame Row. Be firm ray child ! — Let me read. — Pa- tience, and FAITH, must fortify our hearts. — (Reads aloud.) — A battle has taken place near Ostralenka — Geileral Ska- hetski attacked the enemy, and was victorious,— -Of the Ras= 4 18 FALL OF sians, five tliousaiul were killed, six liundred wounded, and two thousand taken prisoners. — Oi" the Poles, five hundred were slain, and eio;ht hundred wounded. Amongst the for- • mer were some ot]icevs,-( She v^eeps.J-De-dr Poland! much do we sacrifice to our love for thee — but not too much — Pau. (With tears.) To know that so many of our no- ble countrymen have fallen ! and that should Poland even ultimately prove victorious, those brave patriots are dead — dead! and witness not the liberty, and the happiness, pur- chased with their blood! Madame Row. My Pauline ! for this I feel as you feel — but is it better that«// should be slaves, than that S07ne 07ily should he free? Dear as my own vital life, are your father, Rudolph, and that son of my affection — your Alexis, — but Duty called them to the field, and should they fall in the good cause — our hearts, though bleeding at every pore, should resign their hopes calmly, — if possible, thankfully. Pait. O mother ! — Should we lose them ! — but (start- ing up,) here comes a letter. — How dreadful are fear and suspense ! Enter Servant loith a letter — ho7vs and approaches. Servant. (Presenting the letter.) Brought by a sol- dier, Madame. — [Boivs and unthdraios.) Madame Row. (Hastily breaking the seal, and glan- cing at the signature.) Ah ! from Alexis ! — Pau. (TVith trembling animation.) Dear mother! what does he say?~(/ooA^5 at the letter over her mother's shoul- der,)— Fiay excuse me my moiliev,— (retiring a little as she speaks.) Madame Row. Yes, my love — We are both weary of suspense — read you, and I will listen. (Pauline takes the letter and ivith a hurried manner reads aloud.) Dearest Madame ! — This will be conveyed to you by a soldier — one of the escort employed to attend the wounded to the Hospi- tal in Warsaw, as it was deemed prudent to remove them to a good distance from possible sudden danger. — We at- WARSAW. 19 tacked Ostralenka three times, and as often were repulsed. — At the fourth attack the place was o?Y?^s.-— The enemy- fled before us.— Your husband, who commanded the right wing, though much fatigued, is animated, and thankful for the victory. — Rudolph is still in pursuit of the enemy. — He commanded the Lancers. — We took '200 cannon. — The foe must see, and feel, that our determination to be free will be resigned but with life. — -I need not speak to you of Pauline ! Dearest Madame ! you know my heart ! — Let her be your guardian, as we are, and strive to be, for you all. To my revered parents, I know you will give early information of this letter. — O ! tell them that their devoted son yet lives, in the hope to exterminate our common foe. — Ever yours, ALEXIS. Madame Row. Bless the brave boy ! Pau. (Looking upivard, as she breathes a deeply drawn sigh of joy and gratitude.) What a relief to our i3urdened hearts! — My father! — Rudolph! — Alexis! all living and ivelll — But this is selfish joy. — Alas! for the widowed and orphan ones! — But sweet mother! shall we not instantly send the good tidings of their young hero, to the venerable Count and Countess Camenski ? Madame Row. Certainly — certainly love.— Give me the letter, and ring for Cecille.- — [She takes the letter from Pauline — who rings the bell, ivhich is ansivered by her attendant. — In the meantime Madame Rowinski goes to a small writing desk and is busily engaged in enclosing, and directing the letter, which, when she has finished, she gives to CECiLLE.)--Send this immediately, with my love, to the Countess Camenski, and bid the messenger say, ere she opens it, that it contains glad news. Cecille. [With a curtesy and a look of benevolent de- light.) — With your permission, my lady, I wdl take it to her myself, and I know that it will then be conducted quickly, and faithfully. Madame Row, Good girl— ^you have my leave.— (Ce- 30 FALL OF ciLLE receives ths letter and withdraws.) — Now, dearest child, go to your room, and sleep, if you can. — I will try to compose myself here. Watching, and anxiety, have made us both sick. We must refresh ourselves for the perform- ance of such duties as may arise in this day of our country's adversity. Pau. (Kissing her mother.) Bless you, sweet mother ! it is a kind and a right thought, and I will do'your bidding; but first let me see you comfortable. — [She arranges ele- gant cushions for her mother^ s head, gently assists her to a reclining posture, and again kisses her. — There, my own mother ! — sleep, and may angels guard you ! Madame Row. Bless thee my daughter! — Exit Pau^ LINE — at the door turning an affectionate look on her mo ther, who smiles and kisses her hand to her. SCENE II. — Russian Camp, Tents, Soldiers, Officers, General. Russian General. [To his Aid.) See if an express 2i^' proaches.— (jE^a:?«7 Aid. — The General walking thoughtful' ly a few moments, looks at his watch.)— Heigh ho \--{cid- dresses some officers near him.) — By the last advice, the Emperor was about to send twelve regiments as a re-inforce- ment. — We must soon receive news. —(T'rz/m/^e^ sounds. — Ha! an express, I doubt not. — (Re-enter Aid, followed by a Soldier, aieariyig the uniform of the Russian cavalry, and flushed with haste.) Aid. Tidings, General ! Gen. (To Soldier.) Speak! Soldier. [Breathing hard, from rapid riding.) Gen-* eral ! — Our van-guard retreats at all quarters ! Gen. CoAvards !~vile cowards !-why retreat? — Shame ! — shame !— from that handful of rebels too ! / must take the command,— Strike for attack [—[Exit all in military order.) SCENE III. — An elegant parlour.— Old Count Camenski, with his head uncovered, his hair as ivhite as snow, and WARSAW. 21 his form bowed with age, loalks the room. — The Coun- tess Camenski, a middle aged, but dignified and beau- tiful woman, sits by a table, onivkich she half leans, re- garding her husband with looks full of sympathizing af- fection. — Jit length she speaks:) Countess. Why— why, my dearest lord, will you thus afflict yourself and me ? Did not our son belong to his country — and do you repent that we yielded to her that which was her own ? — Poor bleeding Poland ! [she weepSi but by an effort, suppresses and hastily dries her tears.) Count Camenski. (Striking his breast.) Woe is me! for my last, my beautiful, my brave one! — Countess Emi- lia !— I had a dream — (ivringing his hands in agony, and raising his eyes with a despairing look,) — such a dream I —The beautiful head of our son was crushed — crushed I beneath the triumphant chariot of the tyrant ! — The tramp- ling hoofs of mighty war horses pressed out the life of our child! — he was mangled — dead I — Oh! my brain reeled — and then my soul sunk as it were mto the sleep of death ! — And u.g3.in.—>again I saw him — haggard — wretched — Home- less — a desolate stranger in a strange land! — Oh Emilia! Y our woman^s heart is firm amidst all its sorrow, and its ap- prehension, whilst /, who have buffeted the storms of four- score years, am utterly subdued by this fearful vision of the night. CouN. Revered and beloved lord! — Let faith prevail,- and be you comforted. — I, too, had a dream! (the old Count stops before the Countess, and earnestly gazes at her face.) You should have heard it before, but that I thought the name of dur son might awaken grief. — Methought Poland had fallen — and deep was our sorrow ! — No tidings of our Alexis had reached us, and overwhelming was our fear. — There was a short and dreadful interval of palpable darkness — then pure and beautiful daylight suddenly appeared, and gradu- ally stole around us. — Soft and balmy air, like the breathing of hope, revived our hearts.— We stood on an emiAeri^^', 5 29 FALL OF and beheld unbroken ranks of young and noble warriors, pass before us, led on by our own brave boy — and my eye, divested of its mortality, saw that which others could not see, — An angel, bright and beautifid beyond the imaginings of mortal mind, — borne in its lightness and glory on the pure air, moved on with our child, holding above his head a radiant shield. — There was a thrill of grateful joy at my heart. — Slowly the lovely vision faded, and preenstly I heard the shout of victory, and I saw our country, rising in glory from the ashes of her desolation ;--and the loved voice of our Alexis, uttered to my ear, like the song of Heaven.— Poland ' IS FREE ! Count Cam. [JFith a manner indicating calmer and less painful feeling.) My Emilia '.—-Heaven grant that this may prove to have been the holy voice of prophecy ! — My 30,ul shall wait in patience ! Enter a Servant. Servant. My lady, a young woman from Madame Rowinski, asks admittance. Coun. Conduct her to me. — [Exit Servant, in a mo- ment returning to the door, and showing in Cecille, who with a respectful and cheerful air advances. Count Ca3I. (In a voice of trepidation.) Bring you tidings ? Cecille. Yes, nohlelovCi, good news. -{She presents the letter to the Countess, ivho ivith suppressed eagerness re- ceives it.) My lady directed it might be said to you, Ma- dame, before you open the letter, that it bears glad words. Coun. Dear, considerate friend! thus to save me from even a moment of fear. — But my good girl, I see that you have walked rapidly: — rest you iDcfore you return. Cec. Thank you Madame.— ('/S'/ie vnthdraws.) (Camenski betrays impatience.) Coun. (Hastily opoiing the letter, and joyfidly hand- ing it to her husband f) — Thank Heaven! he is safe.' Count Cam. {Eagerly taking, but instantly returning WARSAW. 23 it,) — Read it to me, Einiiia. — Joy has made you forget that my poor eyes are dim. CouN. (Looking a moment at the letter.) Alexis lives ! .^— in health.' — and victory is on our side J — {The old man kneels, and hotvs his head in silent gratitude.) CouN. (Looking upward.) Thanks! \_Cur tain falls. ACT THE THIRD. SCENE I. — City of Warsaw again. — ^B hospital seen^ before which stands, or walks, a sentinel, and one be- fore the prison, — the words arsenal, and hospital, ap- pearing each on its respective building. — .^ magazine, the lower door of which is operi, and soldiers are carry- ing inpoiadcr kegs. — Wounded soldiers are brought on biers to the hospital. — Music. — The cries of the tvound- ed in the battle of Prague. Enter Countess Camenski, with a Servant, both bring- ing provisions, ^"C. to the hospital. — She stops and speaks to the sentinel Countess Camenski. Have they brought many wounded? Soldier. (Bowing.) Oh yes Madame ! — xAnd the brave and noble Major Rowinski, by a random shot lost an arm when the battle was over, and the express had been sent off. — He has just arrived. Coun. Alas! is it indeed so! — Good man! — Gallant soldier ! — What will my poor friend ? — What will Pauline — noble, affectionate child ! say to this ?- — when she sees her beloved fatlier — mutilated!— maimed! — Oh dreadful ! — [She enters the hospital, iviping her tears, but the next lyioment re-appears at the door, addressing her attendant,) — Take these things in, and inquire particularly respecting Major Rowinski's state. — I bethink me that I must return instant- 24 FALL OF ly and prepare my lord to hear of this disaster of his friend. "—[She passes off the stage — servant enters the hospital. Enter Madame Rowinski, and Pauline, ivith Cecille, and two other female servants, bearing bandages and comforts for the wounded. — They enter the hospital. Directly Pauline runs out, wringing her hands in an agony of grief , shocked by the sudden knowledge of her father^ s disaster, and crying: — Oh my father! — Oh my mother ! — my brother ! — my Alexis ! — my country! ! — Can this be endured ? — well ! — well ! — {looking up with afrantic air.y-ii it for thee Heaven !— for thee sweet Poland!--0! if this woman^s arm were worthy of this woman^s heart.' — (pau- ses a moment.)^— Yes ! — I would go, — {her frantic manner changed to one of energy and firmness.) — Bitter trials will nerve the feeble spirit to strong endurance! — How gladly would I array this woman's form m the gallant costume of my brave countrymen, and go — onward — onward! till Po- land should rise, beautiful — glorious— -/*ree — free! ha! ha! ha ! — [her feelings ivrought up to hysterical excitement.) —I go ! — [As she is about to make her exit, ivith a light and rapid step, her attention is arrested by the distant sound ofmarticd music. — She looks earnestly in the direction. — Music approaches. — Women, children, and soine old men come from the houses and eagerly gaze.) Enter AlexIs, with Polish soldiers, conducting Russian prisoners. Pauline . ( Stepping aside with a half-suppressed excla- mation.) My own — my brave one ! (Some of the bystanders speak.) — Here they come.-— Yes, those men are prisoners.^-Let them now feel what captivity is — it is now their turn — dastard minions of a ty- rant! — There is the brave young leader — bless him!^ — bless him! Alexis. Lieutenant! — These are prisoners of war.—- Place them in security, but remember they are to be treated with the respect and humanity due to brave, though mis- WARSAW. 25 guided men,— "( The Polish soldiers, with prisoners in the centre, move towards the prison, at the entrance ofivhich the soldiers remain luithout, while the prisoners pass in, led by the Officer to whom Alexis had given ih6 direction. — Alexis regards all that passes. — -After a short interval the officer re-appears from the prison, and leads the soldiers back towards Alexis. — Bystanders gradu' ally vjithdraw.) , Officer. (^T^o Alexis.) Captain, the prisoners are se- cured. Alex. With every essential accommodation? Off. Yes, captain, Alex. Then return you all to the camp. — I shall now visit the wounded. — (Exeunt Officer and soldiers. — Alexis turns towards the hospital and looking on one side observes Pauline, and rapidly hastens towards her.— She meets him. Pau. Alexis ! Alex. My Pauline ! Pau. You are welcome — welcome ! — Thanks — thanks t for your safe return. — Most painful have been my fears ! Alex. Blessings on you dearest one ! — I live yet for you. — How are my dear parents?— How is your angel mo- ther? Pau. Still on the earth to bless you. — But alas !— alas! — my poor father!— ('sAe weeps,)— M^imeA and suffer- ing! — I could not speak to him! My poor mother is with him! — Alexis! you know of this dreadful misfortune. Alex. Y'es, my Pauline, I know all; arid my inmost soul feels the wound. — But let us be thankful that he yet lives, to give the energies of his faithful and unbi'oken spirit, in council and in blessing to his country.— We mUst consi- der, dear Pauline, that every thing in this world is gain or loss. — We strive for gain or success, but if we fail we must not repine, but still go forward in duty. Our efforts have 80 far been blessed.-^The general in chief will be here in 6 ^6 rkLh OF • an hour. — He wishes to have a Te-Deum sung for our victo- ry over our oppressors. Pau. Alas ! how many bereaved hearts feel it to have been a costly victory ! — But will you remain till he comes ? Alex. Certainly : — but now, sweet friend, I must hasten to visit our suffering warriors, — My general, and my own |ieart, have commanded me to this duty, even before I look on the loved faces of my parents^ — and go you with me. — Remember, dearest, you are a daughter of Poland. Pau. (Putting her hand to her head.) Yes — yes ! I remember it all now. The joy of seeing you safe made pe for a moment forget — but I will brace my heart for the trial, and go to assist my dearest mother in succouring my noble father. Alex. Come then, — [they 'proceed towards the hospi- tah) — and I doubt not you will find him rejoicing in the sacrifice he has made for our country. They enter the hospital. — Martial music, heard first at a distance, approaches. — Enter general in chief, Skanet- sKi, attended by his staff of officers. — Citizens appear- here a7id there, following, looking out f^om houses, and assembling. General. (In a loud clear voce.) Comrades and citi- zens — the object of my present visit to the capital is, that we may prepare for a sacred and joyful thanksgiving for our late victory. I thought it proper to give my army brief time for rest, that with renewed strength they may return to the stiife, and we cannot spend the interval better than to thank Heaven for our success, so far — and to invoke a blessing on pur future efforts, trusting that our beloved country will speedily arise from her depression, and lift up her head among the nations. Go you, — (to an officer,) — and make essential arrangements for a solemn procession, and all oth- er observances suited to this glad and sacred celebration, and let the swords of our fallen heroes be deposited in the church, till their sons are able to gird them on for the de WARSAW. . 27 fence of their country. — (Officer, with a bow, exit through a street leading farther into the city.— The General again leads forward his soldiers. — Martial music. — Exeunt in a direction opposite that of their entrance. SCENE II. — Room in the hospital. — Major Rowinski, pale and faint, half reclining on a couch, supported by his wife, who bends over him with an anxious counten- ance. — Pauline, kneeling, holds her father's hand, on which her headis bowed.—Physicians inattendance, with Alexis. — The voice of the Countess Camenski is heard from some adjoining apartment. Countess. This way my dear lord — this is the room to which we were directed. Count Cam. And say you that here we shall see our son? Coun. Yes we shall meet him here. With noble self-, denial he has come hither first, regarding the call of duty above even the voice of filial love.— [She enters, conducting her aged lord, who advances ivith trembling agitation.) Alex. [Stepping hastily towards them.) My parents ! — i (kneels before them. — Countess falls on his neck. — The old Count extending his arms, sinks on his knees, and looking upivard exclaims, in the trembling voice of age: "Blessings on my boy!" Coun. (Laying her hand on the head of Alexis.) — Receive, too, a mother's blessing! — (Alexis bows his head, rises, and supports his father to the couch o/* Major Row- inski. Countess Camenski. [Follovnng and extending her hand to Ro'winski's ivife, with deep sympathy of voice and manner.) — My beloved friend! lam grieved at this sight, — . {looking at Major Rowinski,)— I had hoped that rumor had out run the truth. Madame Rowinski. I am thankful that he lives! Count Cam. ( Standing before the couch, his arms folded over his breast, trembling and shocked at the condition of 28 FA.LL OF his friend.) Dear veteran ! is thy course of glory so soon ended ? already lost to thy country m her cloudy and dark (]a,y ? — Woe is me ! — The green tree has fallen in its power and its pride, — and the aged and worthless trunk cumbers the ground! —[bends and embraces Rowinski, who opens his eyes and makes an effort to rise, but siiiks back and extends his hand to Camenski, faintly exclaiming :)—k]i dear and venerable friend!— are you here? Count Cam. [With trembling and joyful eagerness.)--- Ha? is there hope then? — I feared thy duty was all done. Major Row. (With momentary a7iimatio7i,)—l^o\ I must see the enemy once more flying before our banner. (Raising his arm.) — Here is yet a good right arm left for my country. Count Cam. Noble man ! Poland and posterity will long remember such a patriot — such a soldier! — Even the enemy must admire courage like thine. — ( Sound of a trum- pet — they all start and listen.) Alex. (After stepping hastily to a window, and look- ing for a moment ijitently.) — Rudolph has returned, in safety, from the pursuit. {All present utter exclamations of joy.) I see him with his brave hand. — I will meet him and conduct him hither. — [Exit in haste, Pau. Dearest mother ! — [embracing her) — dear father! there is yet joy for us — Rudolph is safe, and you live, my father. (Madam Rowinski looks upward with a serene smile, and with hands clasped, as in gratitude.) Major Row- Yes, my child, I live, and I am happy! My love for Poland triumphs -over pain and loss. Your brother is safe and victorious. Hark ! he comes. (All look towards the door with tenderness and animation. — Enter Rudolph and Alexis. Rudolph and his mother and sister rush to meet each other.) [^Curtain falls. WARSAW. 29 ACT THE FOURTH. ^'SCENE I. — Jl large ancient church, well lighted withtn, (^otherwise the stage dark,)inafine open space. Many houses seen in the distance, and some nearer; and standing about the church, and walking here and there, are see7i old inen and women, citizens^ some in mourn- ing. Jin old man speaks: — O ! my son ! — -he fell yesterday — = fbut patience old heart! it is all for Poland and Liberty. An old ivoman speaks: — Yes, we come hither to rejoice for victory; — but I cannot forget my husband — ray friend — > my protector. Another woman speaks:'— And I have two dear sons, ^ead, or alive, on the battle-field. — Well ! I gave them to their ^^ountry. — She had the best right. (A large old ivoman is seen slyly to hand a letter to a bad looking fellow in the dress of a page, who instantly glides behind the church. First faint sound of a bell heard.) Another speaker:— W^^xk ! they come {—{All gaze earnest- ly. — Bells now heard in different directions, and minute guns, and at intervals a trumpet sounds the note of victory. A procession enters with martial music,— Tune Marseilles Hymn.)— Order of procession: 1st. Boys,— (in a uniform dress— not exactly military,) two and two, preceded by a small boy bearing a little flag, on which appears the Polish Eagle. — Each of the boys following bears the sword of some fallen Polish officer, to deposite in the church. — On each side v/alk two boys, — = (torch bearers.) Next, litde girls in white, with wreaths of laurel. Next, Catholic Bishop, in the full dress of his order. Next, six Priests in full dress. Then the General-in-chief, with an ofRcer on each side. Then Major Rowinski, with his left sleeve hanging loose.* and Count Camenski. 7 do FALL OF Then Captain Rudolph Rowinski, leuding on his compa^ ny of soldiers, in the midst of which, borne by a young officer, appears the Polish flag which Pauline had presented, somewhat torn, and spotted with blood. Then the Countess and Madame Kowinski, followed by many ladies of the citizens, all richly dressed — Then Alexis leading on his company. — At the entrance of the church the boys divide, (torches held an each side by the young torch-bearers,) — and the rest of the procession enters the church, followed lastly by the boys. After a short interval solemn music is heard in the church, instrumental, and accompanied by many voices, principally female. — When the tune is finish- ed, there is a brief profound silence. — Suddenly a bugle is heard from a distance. — Victory in the battle of Prague. The sound of the bugle having ceased, enter two young ladies in white, each bearing a torch in the right hand, and on the left arm a shield, on which appears the national der vice, of the ivhite Eagle; a small sword at the side, and a carabine, by a red cord, suspended from the shouder.— . Light and elegant armour on the breast, and on the head a helmet of the same description. Next Cecille, with a neat and delicate bugle, armour, sword &;c., as above mentioned, and designated as the musician by red tassels hanging from her helmet. Next Pauline, her rich dark ringlets falling over her shoulders, helmet, shield, <^c., and distingushed by a brilliant star on her breast. — As she enters, Cecille plays on the bugle. — Tune ''Then let the trumpet sound.'^ Pauline turns at the entrance, and beckoning to others, is immediately followed by many young ladies in the same description of dress, all with small elegant swords, etc. The procession is closed by two other female torch bearers, attired and armed in the same way. — As they advance slowly on the stage, music is again heard in the church, with many voices. The young ladies march round the stage, and at the entrance to the church, the torch bearers standing on each side, let the others pass in. — There is sud^ Warsaw. 1^1 den silence in the church, as if from the influence of sui'- prise. — All enter, followed by the torch-bearers. — Instru* mental music in the church, heard again for a moment.— j- Scene slowly changes. SCENE II. — Room in the Governor's house. ^ A splendid parlour, richly furnished and decorated. — The Governor is seated alone near a table on which are writing mate- rials. Governor, tta! ha! — finely contrived 1*^— an ingenious spy of the Emperor, that! — to join this idle thanksgiving croud, as a feeble old woman, and so adroitly slip the lette? into the hand of one of my menials, who brought it to me before the first note of that unavailmg Te-Deum sounded the requiem of Polish liberty !— Vain braggarts ! their tri^ umph will soon end. — The desire of wealth and power makes the passion of my sonl. — This passion must be gratified! — -So the fates have ordained! — I must contrive to become king of Poland ! — Let me read again this pre- cious letter, for I think I shall act according to the wish the Emperor has expressed. It has not been in vain that I have made myself known to him. — (Takes a letter from his pocket and reads. — Count! remember you formerly pomis- ed that if Poland should ever agani revolt, you would be faithful to your sovereign Emperor. — Now is the time ! — Now is the time ! — Now you may raise yourself in my es* timation, and besides that, a million of Rubles shall be paid down to you on the instant. — All advantage, and authority, that you can possibly desire at my hand, shall be yours.— You will receive seasonable advice respecting the steps you are to take. By order of the Emperor, PASKEWITSH. Gov. ( Sloivly folding the letter and putting it into his pocket. Well ! — this is good — money and power are every thing in this world. — We all want a little more, and aim continually to climb \ng\\ex.--(Puts his hand to his head, Sfter a pause,)-— I must look out for myself.--Fools thej 32? FALL OF were, who for a Tittle fair show of Patriotism, placed' me at the head of their noble capital. — Fools ! — they would not trust me, forsooth, with the command of the Army, — yet gave me the power to manage affairs for my own advantage. (Walks up and doivn the room.)— Will is Destiny '.—The spirit and the blood of my sire prevail ! — I will be King of Poland !— / will sell my country !— [Speaks in a loud and fiendish whisper. — He resumes his seat at the table, and after musing a few moments, writes, and then reads what he has written as follows :) — / wiU do what lean to pleaser my sovereign. — Henceforth I am a Russian. KROOKOVEEATSKI. Good ! — [Carefully folds the letter and puts it in his pock- et book, which he replaces in his pocket. — Enter a page in livery, boiving.) Page, a priest waits to speak to your excellency. Gov. Conduct him hither. — (Exit page, who after a few moments returns showing in the priest, and immedi- ately unthdraws.) Gov. (Rising to receive /w'm.J— Welcome ! veneraMe father. — What tidings ? Priest. (Bounng low.) Governor, your most obedi- ent! — Are we alone? — (Looking round the room. — An as- senting bow from, the Governor.)— Sir, I am a Russian cadet. Gov. Ha ! Priest. Disguised as a humble citizen I found my way to your servant, whom I met by the church, and recogniz- ed by his livery. — You doubtless received a letter from his hand? Gov. Yes, and I am prepared to reply that I will see what can be done. Priest. In my present disguise I have readily found my way to your presence.— I come from our General-in-chief, to say to you, in the name of the Emperor, that if you can manage to obtain the command from General Skanetski, or WARSAW. 33 SO contrive that he shall be led to resign, and retire to the Capital; and if you will devise a method by which the com- mand may be secured to some person whom ive can trusty (you understand me,) — a man who will draw the army back to Warsaw — close up the city — place a guard at every toll gate— then draw the soldiers from the north east side, under a pretence of having discovered that an attack is to be made on the opposite quarter, so that we may meet with little or no resistance on that side,— we shall then obtain possession of the capital comparatively without bloodshed. I am bid to say that if thus you direct, and accomplish— the applause, and friendship of the Emperor are yours, and wealth and honors await you» Gov. (With a wicked smile.) Well! — Stratagem is al- lowable in war.— Tell your General that I have already thought much on this subject. The plan proposed meets my views. — All shall be so contrived that there can be no possible chance of failure, — [thoughtfully,)— Yes— I am sure we shall succed.— I will give Warsaw into his hands,— (rubbing his hands gleefully and looking down.) — It will be the best thing I can do for Poland.™ (^/i expression of contempt appears on the face of the disguised cadet.) — But here is a lettev,— (taking out his pocket book,) — that will satisfy the Emperor.— (Pne.s^ receives the letter.)— My re- spects to your venerable priestship, — (bowing with a look of mock gravity,) — and my best wishes for your safe return to your countrymen. — (Exit Priest.-- TVie Governor walks up and down the room.)—l have done well !— I have enrich^ ed myself J — And the senate dared to slight me ! — Aye ! and I have rewarded them!— They shall see and feel it !— Revenge ! (iri a powerful voice, stamping as he speaks.) [_Exit Governor, SCENE III. — A wood Scenery, painted to represent fine horses, with Polish lancers, mounted with their lances. Tents in the back ground, about which are seen Polish soldiers,-' Stacks of guns, and piles of cannon balls, with 84 FALL OF small cannon here and therd mounted. — Two sentineh ivalk, one on each side of the tents. — Enter ALExis,fro7n the side of the stage. Alexis. Again have I been blessed with a sight of my loved native city — oi' my venerable parents, and [ivith ten- der animation,) my noble Pauline. — How difficult did I find it to dissuade her, and her gentle and high-souled com- panions — that young and lovely band, from following us to the defence of their country ! — Sweet patriots ! how ready to resign every comfort for their beloved land ! — But it is rather for the7n to give their tender regards to the consoling of bereaved wives and mothers ! — It is for them to weep over the memory of fallen fathers and brothers, and to await the i*eturn of wounded, suffering warriors, to restore them, by constant, generous attendance — or with angel faith and kind- ness to sooth the departing spirit, through its shadowy path, to a land of liberty and peace. — ^But I will hasten to join my noble soldiers — my brave and beloved countrymen. — (He passes rapidly towards the tents in the back ground. — A drum beats in that direction.— Several officers advance to meet him, — they salute, and shake hands, and all look earnestly, when different drums are heard in another direc- tion, and troops appear led on by Major Rowinski andjiis son, — the flag presented by Pauline carried in front. On the appearance of the troops, an officer commands the sol- diers already on the ground To arms.' — They take muskets from the stacks and form aline — Alexis passes before them for a hasty review, and commands them to present arms! as Major Rowinski, who is in advance^ reaches the spot. [A trumpet is heard, and a single cannon.) Alex. The General approaches.— (t^/yer a few moments enter General Skanetski ivith his staff of officers. — As he appears. Major Rgwinski addresses Rudolph f/??f/ Alexis.) Major Rowinski. Captains! join your companies. — (Rudolph takes his place on the right of his company — Alexis on the left of his — Major Rowinski takes his' sta- WARSAW. 35 iion ill front of tlie line, facing tlie approiching General, whom the Major, Rudolph and Alexis, salute by raising their swords perpendicularly, and bringing the hilts in con^ tact 'vith their foreheads. — The General returns this salu- tation by raising bis hat. — He then draws his sword, and after regarding the Inie of troops for a few moments, with an appearance of approbation, he orders, Soldiers! shoulder arms! and then addresses them.) General. I km proud and happy in being able to say that the recent engagements with the enemy have proved you brave men.— You will always remember that you are the countrymen of Kosciosko, whose name can never die, and that Poniatowski in the late French campaign against Russia, fell by the side of the noble Napoleon, who boasted, with honest pride, of the bravery of his Polish allies.— The world will recognise you as the sons of those who won the confidence of that great man.— We shall soon again mee/ the enemy. — I know you are not willing to wait his approach. No ! let us show that we will meet him. The second bri- gade of the Artillery, and the third and fourth regiment of lancers, ready for action, await my orders at the entrance of the wood.— In one hour we make the attack.— Our country was, and will yet be, the land of the Free!— [Sound of the trumpet z/;i7/iOt«/.)— How I— What is that?— Support arms. Eater a Polish Lancer. Lancer. (Baisino- his right hand to his cap, and with his left presenting a letter.) From Warsaw.— (7^/ie Gen- eral eagerly receiving the letter, hastily unseals and reads it, appearing^much displeased. Gen. How is this?— look at i\m1-~{lianding the letter to Major Rowinski, who takes it and reads loith an air of dissatisfaction.— In the interval, the General address- es the other officers.)— The Governor requests me, by con- sent, he says, of the Senate, to draw back with the whole army into the city, under pretence that the enemy, or his iiUies, are known to be on their march to attack the Capital, 36 FALL OF and that it is feared that our advance for its defence may be cut otT.— Our spies are out in every direction, and the reason given for the retreat of the army into the city, must be a onere pretence.— Why then the Governor's direction?--! know not.— If 1 must be thus fettered in my efforts to serve our country;— If I cannot, in accordance with my honest convic- tion of expedience, and duty, advance to meet the enemy, I will this moment resign my commission. — I should depart •from you with grief.— My affection embraces you all, and never would I leave you while Poland had an enemy to be conquered— but this order \— must it be obeyed? — No! I will no/ retreat !— I will lead my brave troops to the attack, or call them together to take leave of them. — Till now, I have been responsible for you all, to Heaven— to Poland— to the world, and to myself I— hnt I tremble hr the future! — Shall our country again be brought into bondage by weak council, or by vile treason ? — -May Heaven avert the evil ! — I wash -my hands of the foul crime '.--Mnjor Rowinski, take the command. I go to Warsaw, to inquire of the Senate, if it be indeed by their advice, and wish, that the Governor gives this strange order. — Why did we commence? — Why not finish our noble career? — What must the world think of us? — -that we are capricious fools ! — and all our poor widows, •^nd orphans ! — Is it for this that their protectors have been sacrificed? — for this — for nothing their dreadful wreck of happiness?— Shame!— Keep an eagle-eye about you my 'brave fellows, and may Heaven be with you ! — I am off for Warsaw. — Follow me! — {addressing the Lancer. — Exeunt 2.'"— Most rapid was our march, yet when we approached the city it wafe already surrounded by the enemy, with an evident de- termination that no possible succour should reach the inhab- itants. — We attempted to force our way: — dreadful was the result. — The strength and number of the foe seemed every moment to increase, and as they fell before our desperate eli'orts, their constantly thinned ranks were as constantly filled. — My br;r'e followers! — 01 Pauline-can leverlorget that hour? — My noble soldiers! shouting, as they did, to the last, — "Victory or death!" Pau. How gloriously died these true sons of our dear unhappy country !™but oh my brother ! — how, amidst this dreadful carnage, — how did you escape? — ( Sheregardshim, listening with an appearance of intense feeling.) RuD. It seemed as if an invisible hand had covered me with a shield of immortality. — I stood, supported, (it must have been,) by a power not of this world, surrounded by destruction, and yet unhurt. — At length my horse was killed under me: — but for this my death must have been inevitable. Stunned by the fall I lay amidst a heap of the dead, and dying, — foe-men, and friends ; and when I returned to con- sciousness I knew by the dreadful sounds from the city- how horrible to my awakened ^ewseV—l knew , miAfelt, that our beautiful and beloved Warsaw was in the hands of her cruel, lawless foe \—l could not wish my bitterest enemy to know the agonies of that moment. — Hope was utterly ex- tinct, and a deadly, calm, unutterable despair, took posses- sion of my spirit. — Directly shouts of savage merriment, and the quick and heavy tramp of war horses came to my ear, — nearer — nearer, and as I lay, half covered by the dead, I descried a band of Cossacks, wild, and fierce for plunder, rushing and plunging over heaps of the fallen. — The sight roused the dormant energies ot my soui. — A voice seemed to WARSAW. 3S whisper in my inmost heart, ^^Thou mayst yet live for thy country.''^ — Thought, and memory, became more vivid, and a feeling of new life, and supernatural strength, rushed into, and pervaded, my physical and moral frame.-— By an instantaneous impulse I drew from my side pocket a loaded pistol, and with effectual aim discharged it at one of the horsemen, galloping towards the spot where I lay. — His powerful steed reared and plunged for a moment, and then stood quietly waiting to hear his master's voice, now silenced forever. — I quickly extricated myself, and not- withstanding a wound in my leg, received as I fell, I suc- ceeded in mounting, unobserved by the reckless and fero- cious beings, now absorbed in their sacrilegious work.— • Where myriads had lately stood all was now silent!— Shouts of wild laughter, and unmanly triumph, came faintly on the distance ; but amidst the dead hush of all things around me, I galloped on, scarce heeding whither, till my attention, alive to every sound, was arrested by a voice, calling me by name. — I halted, and looking round, perceived one of our Lancers, feebly emerging from the thick underwood, where, in the hope that his life might yet be devoted to his country, he had concealed himself after the desperate battle, in which he had been wounded, and his squadron, almost to a man, had fallen, or become prisoners. Pau. Poor— noble fellows ! — But Rudolph, how, in such a hopeless, desolate place, did you and your companion, both wounded, obtain succour? RuD. I assisted him to mount with me, and took him to a hut in our way, where a widowed dame, skillful in the use of simples, drest our wounds, and gave us refreshment. He then conducted me to this spot, which was well known to him, and here, with wild herbs and fruits, we have sus- tained life.— Poor fellow !— he is now in the happy forget- fulness of sleep. — We rest, and watch, by turns. — But my sister! I appreciate, most tenderly, the generous daring, which has brought you to me with this timely succour, yet 10 S4 WALL OF you must not again come hither. — The enterprise is fullor peril. — Besides, my remaining long here would be impos- sible. — The Russian cavalry is undoubtedly dispersed through the country, in search of any Poles who may have escaped, and who, if any there are, would so cheerfully gather, and rally around the fallen standard of their unhappy country; if by a last, and mighty effort, they might raise it from its dreadful prostration. — This, our triumphant enemy will be determined to prevent.^ — They know the Poles—- and every nerve will be exerted to discover, and to crush them. Pau. Alas ! my brother — where will you go ? RuD. We have not yet determined, but, if possible, I will inform you. — And now, Pauline, tell me of our friends. — (He listens with painful eagerness.) Pau. Alexis is slowly recovering from an almost mor- tal wound. — His dear old father did light! Rudolph. — He was seen engaged, with the wild energy of an unsettled mind, m single combat with an officer of the enemy, who took him; and he, and his lovely Countess, with many other la- dies, of high standing, who have been peculiarly active ia our country's cause, are now in prison! RuD. Shame ! — shame ! Pau. The noble Skanetski has gone into voluntary exiley and nearly all of the few survivors of those who defended 0ur city in her extremity, have been banished to Siberia! RuD. Inglorious victory ! — branded by such base cow- ardice !— but Pauline tell me of our parents. -^{She weeps. )—■ Is it general distress only, which thus affects you?^ — do you mourn because Poland is dead? — Speak Pauline! — Have you aught to tell me of our mother? — of our father?' — What mean these tears ? — speak ! — my heart is firm to hear all ! Pau* Our mother lives, but her heart is broken {—(She weeps.) Hud*. And our father! WARSAW. 55 Pau. He fell bravely ! — and his freed spirit has gone where the tyrant's persecution is known no more. Run. I was prepared for this ! — and I have no tears !— I cannot weep — and if I could, it -vould not ease a soldier's sufferings.— I feel— I feel it all— here !— here I— [Striking his breast.) Pau. Oh brother ! — dear brother ! RuD. Sweet sister ! — I must send you from me, Pau. I cannot leave you. RuD. Think, Pauline, of our mother. — Go to her. — = Surely you will be permitted to see her, even if, as I sus- pect, she too is a captive. — Humanity is not, I hope, quite *— quite dead. — Go to our mother, and if you can, speak to her yet of comfort — of hope. Pau. Alas ! what consolation can I give her, ignorant as we must both be of your deJRny ? RuD. For the love I bear you both, I shall guard my life, still dear to me for her sake, and for yours, my sister. Take with you this assurance, and with it comfort our dear — dear mother. — Come I will go with you, at least till you have crossed the bridge. Pau. (In terror.) No brother !— this must not be.— Your appearance with me, should I be noticed, would pro- bably be fatal to hoi\\:-'( seeing Rudolph about to speak earnestly)— n3.y—m'ge it not. — I cannot hear you. — I will not consent to this exposure of your safety. — O! farewell— dearest Rudolph! — You have done your duty to your coun- try — to all of us. — O ! take care of yourself, and though separated, and sorrowful, we will live in the hope that some blessed to-morrow is yet in store for us, when this dark and 'bitter night of our adversity shall have passed.^ — Nay— nay- go with me you must not. — Farewell— farewell ! dearest Rudolph ! — Heaven guard and guide you !— ( They embrace.) Run. Farewell ! then, my own Pauline— but I charge you be wary in returning. — Why— why wall you not suffer me to guard you, at least a little way? 5(^ FALL OF Pau. Name it not. — I will be w-^tchful.— Oh brother!— Once more! — (They embrace. — Exit Pauline in haste, weeping. — Plaintive music, — Fleuve du Tage. — Rudolph looks after her, and around, with a searching glance, and »n appearance of great anxiety, till, frequently turning a ■watchful and apprehensive look on the surrounding scenery, gihe has crossed the bridge, and disappeared in the woods.— lie then places the basket within the cavern, returns to the entrance, walks out a few paces, again looks anxiously round, and at length disappears in the cavern.) Enter hastily from the back ground^ a Russian Officer, with several soldiers. — They approach the bridge and look round. Officer. Where can she be ? — I surely saw a girl de- •cendingthe hill.— She has, without doubt, furnished some of the concealed Poles with provisions— possibly that arch rebel, Alexis Camenski. — It was but last night, that most strangely, and notwithstanding his scarcely closed wounds, he escaped from the guard appointed to transport him to Siberia. — A price of one thousand rubles is now set upon his head, dead or alive. — Scour tbe woods soldiers !— Search out the girl's hiding place, and bring her before me. — I will watch on the bridge, that she may not escape.— (T'/ie sol- diers disappear in the ivoods, whilst the officer takes his station on the bridge, looking round watchfully.)— I will at least terrify her into a confession. — (During the interval low, quick music, (note of alar7n) — and as this dies away in the distance, a shout is heard, and the words ^^TVe have found the bird-'"' — Re-enter soldiers, with Pauline. — They place her before the officer.) Off. Who are you? — and where have you been? — Speak! — Where are they to whom you brought food? — speak ! — tell me all the truth, or you die ! Pau. Then I die ! Off. What ! — give up your young life so idly ! Pau. If life, and all that it can offer, must be bought by WARSAW. 57 the price of my fidelity to my dear— dear country, I would rather die ! — I die with, and for, Poland ! Off. Girl !— fool !— tell us where they are concealed, and do not throw away your life. Pau. I have answered. Off. I would fain spare you — come, tell me all, and you shall be conducted safely wherever you may choose to go. Speak, girl !— you are too young— too beautiful, thus to die. — Speak! — (He points his sword at her breast.) Pau. [Kneeling, crossing her hands on her bosom, and looking upward.) Protect my mother ! — (A pistol is dis- charged by an unseen hand — the officer falls, and Alexis, pale and emaciated, with his left arm in a sling, rushes for- ward. — At the moment one of the soldiers discharges his musket, which misses him. — Another shoots Pauline: — she falls. — Rudolph and the Lancer appear at the instant.— The Russian soldiers, seeing them, fly,— They follow. — The pursued and pursuers are immediately lost to view in the mazes of the wood. — Alexis, utterly absorbed by the dying Pauline, sees nothing else, and kneeling with a look of distraction, raises and supports her on his bosom.) Alexis. Beloved — Oh beloved one ! — speak to me ! — Oh speak ! Pau. (Faintly.) My Alexis !~beloved in death !~grieve not.— I die for — Poland!— for Rudolph!— He is there, — {trying to point towards the cavern.)—L\vQ\—k\\ good hearts — will — sympathize — in our wrongs.— Mother !— my — mo— ther ! — Alexis ! — live ! — My spirit — will watch — beside you— for the dawn which— shall yet— arise !— Our country— will live again! — Endure life — that you — may watch — for the moment of her reviving~vitality.-0 Love \— stronger than Death \—{She raises his hand to her lips with dying energy — suddenly drops it, and dies. — Solemn music, tune Dame Blanche.) Alex. (After a pause.) And you are gone, sweet soul !~ andllive!— Do Hive?— am Ihere?— (^e lays her very 58 FALL OF gently on the earth— slowly looks round, and up ward— then puts his hand to his head, and to his eyes.) — Is it a dream ? — Pauline ! — speak ! — Silent ! — my loved one ! — dead ! — Re- turn— Oh!— return '.---(His eye is fixed upward, and he stands unconcious of all belonging to earth.— Rudolph and the Lancer appear in the distant back ground, where they pass a few moments in evident consultation; then, as the Lancer walks a lew paces, and frequently looks about, as if to guard against surprise, Rudolph comes forward, panting from desperate exertion, and bearing with him the arms of the defeated Russian soldiers.) RuD. Alexis I—Brushing towards him as he speaks.) — But what ! — [starting vjildly as his eye rests on his dead sister,) — Oh Heaven ! — what a sight for me ! — [he throws down the muskets and casts himself heside Pauline. )-And has it come to this, sweet sister?— must even thy innocent blood be wasted?— Oh Poland !— Poland !— thy glory and 4hy beauty have departed ! — and what remains for me ?--The voice of woe, and perpetual desolation ! — nothing more for me to do '.--but yes \— (starting to hisfeet,)—AlGx[s\ there is yet work for us. Alex. Return Sweet spirit! — [his gaze still fixed up- ward.) RuD. Poor soul! — my heart bleeds for thee, and for myself. — No more shall that bright and lovely spirit re-ani- mate this angel form, and weep, and suffer, for her country ! — But rouse thee — Oh my brother ! to noble endurance of this, thy last, and bitterest sorrow. — It seems to me that heaven has kept us alive, in the midst of death, to hear again the voice of our country. — Rouse thee Alexis ! — There will yet be work for us. Alex. Return Love !— return ! RuD. Come, come, Alexis ! — Alexis ! — By the love we bear her, — let us lay these dear remains in the bosom of her country— and away!— That beauteous spirit speaks to us I— away !—away /—Alexis !— there is no time to lose. WARSAW. 59^ —Let us fly, that at a distance we may watch for the mo- ment when the sun of Polish Liberty, breaking mightily through this black eclipse, will shine again — aye! gloriously! — and the unblinking eye of our own white Eagle will again fix its exulting gaze — no more to droop — its light quenched in blood! — Yes ! the Oppressors of our Land will forget their vigilance, and her dispersed sons will slowly gather — gather; and their little ones will hear of her wrongs, and ponder as they rise to manhood. — We will watch for that moment, and lead them on to Victory! — Alexis ! — if you love your country — Speak ! — He hears me not ! — (as if actua- ted by a sudden thought, Rudolph turns hastily away, and with rapid strides approaches the cavern, which he enters, re-appearing, almost instantly, with the rent and blood-spot- ted Flag which Pauline had presented to his company. He rushes back to Alexis, and holding the Flag up before him, with a low, emphatic voice, pronounces the name of Paul- ine ! Starting with a deep, heavy sigh, Alexis fixes his eye upon it, for a moment, with one step towards it -grasps, and embraces it, with intense emotion, and at length finds utterance.) Alex.-' -Pauline !™By this dear and holy relic, Poland imllyet live ! — will yet be Free I \jOurtain falls ^ ERRATA. Page 8, for strippling read stripling, «< 14, 8th line, for heat read heart. «< 17, for Ostralenka read Ostrolenka. « 19, for curtesy read courtesy, « 20, 1st line, read the. « 23, 8th line, xe^A. presently, « 43, 4th line, the sense is injured by a comma being: placed after the woxdfall instead of after the word on.